Author

Year of Publication

Paper Type

College

College of Education and Human Services

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

Department

Education

First Advisor

Dr. Janice Wood

Second Advisor

Dr. Paul Eggen

Third Advisor

Dr. James Mittelstadt

Abstract

Nonverbal communication was not considered a science until 1950, after Ray Birdwhistell conducted extensive nonverbal research. Thus, the research on nonverbal communication in the classroom is still in it's pioneer stage. The purpose of this project was to increase kindergarten teachers’ awareness of nonverbal communication and its effect upon students. This pilot study emphasized four specific nonverbal behaviors: eye contact, touch, smile and proxemics. Research has found these behaviors to be true indicators of one's psychological state at the given time. It was believed that by increasing a teacher's nonverbal behaviors he could change students' immediate responses toward school.